A 130-year-old bridge in Catford will be replaced as part of extensive rail engineering works taking place over the bank holiday weekend.

Freight trains are currently subject to a 15mph speed restriction over the bridge, which was built around 1890, due to its weakened condition.

As part of network wide improvements, engineers will also be replacing points, the moveable rails which allow trains to change tracks, at a busy junction near Crayford.

Southeastern Train Services Director, Scott Brightwell, said: “This is another important project under the South East Upgrade that helps to improve our service.

“It will give our passengers more reliable journeys by reducing the risk of delays. Thanks for bearing with us while this essential work is carried out.”

The junction at Crayford was originally installed as part of wartime resilience for the railway, and it is now one of the busiest on Southeastern’s network, linking Sidcup with Dartford.

Replacing the points there will help improve reliability for passengers across the area.

The work will take place between Saturday August 29 and Monday August 31, and passengers are urged to check before they travel.

Additional work will be completed while the railway is closed between Nunhead and Shortlands, to avoid future disruption for passengers and deliver immediate benefits.

This will include embankment work, track work and work at Beckenham Hill station.